Preparing for GI Motility Testing Cedars-Sinai Skip to content Close Select your preferred language English عربى 简体中文 繁體中文 فارسي עִברִית 日本語 한국어 Русский Español Tagalog Menu Close Call 1-800-CEDARS-1 toggle search form Close Share Email Print GI Motility Program Back to GI Motility Program Leadership Conditions We Treat GI Motility Testing Preparing for GI Motility Testing Locations Clinical Trials Send Us a Message Preparing for GI Motility Testing Most GI motility tests require different methods of preparation. This guide helps you understand what to expect for some standard procedures, including study length, pretest diet and other protocols. Your doctor will give you specific instructions before your test that you should follow carefully. Anorectal Studies Study time: 30 to 60 minutes. Pretest diet: No food or drink three hours before testing. Clear the way: Give yourself a saline enema two hours before the test. Antroduodenal Manometry Study time: Six hours. Pretest diet: Do not eat or drink anything after midnight. In the morning: Do not use gum, mints or cigarettes. Things to pack: Bring a sandwich to eat during your test—any kind you want. Breath Test Study time: Up to three hours. When to schedule: At least 30 days after colonoscopy study. Pretest diet: One day before the test, you will start your pretest diet, eating only the foods below and nothing after midnight: Eggs with seasoning (no butter) Chicken, fish, beef or pork with seasoning White rice Any kind of potato Water Coffee with NO dairy In the morning: Brush your teeth. Feel free to use mint-flavored toothpaste or mouthwash. Medications: You may take scheduled medicines at least two hours before the study with small sips of water. However, if possible, take the medication after the study is over. Colonic Motility Study Study time: Six hours. Actions: Obtain a prescription for colonic motility preparation from your physician and take as directed. Pretest diet: Do not eat or drink after midnight before your study date. Over-the-counter medications: Seven days before your colonoscopy, discontinue iron, aspirin and blood thinners. Prescription medications: You may take blood pressure or heart medications at least two hours before the study with small sips of water. If you have diabetes, consult with your physician. Things to pack: Bring a sandwich to eat during the test—any kind you want. High-Resolution Impedance Esophageal Manometry Test Study time: One hour. Pretest diet: Do not eat or drink anything after midnight. In the morning: Do not chew gum, mints or smoke cigarettes. pH Study (24 Hours) Study time: 24 hours. Pretest diet: Do not eat or drink anything after midnight. Do not chew gum. Heartburn or GERD medication: Discontinue any acid-suppressing medication five days before your appointment, unless your physician instructs otherwise. Follow up: Please make arrangements to return to have the catheter removed the following day. pH Monitoring System (48 and 96 Hours) Study time: 48 or 96 hours. Pretest diet: Do not eat or drink anything after midnight. In the morning: Do not use gum, mints or cigarettes. Heartburn or GERD medication: Discontinue any acid-suppressing drug five days before your study, unless your doctor instructs otherwise. Follow up: Please make arrangements to bring the pH monitor back. Smart Pill Study Study time: Up to 7 days. Prior authorization: Speak with your provider's office to obtain prior approval from your insurance before calling to schedule this study. Instructions: We will provide guidance when you schedule your appointment. Have Questions or Need Help To make an appointment or refer a patient, call us or send a message to the GI Motility team. You can also have us call you back at your convenience. Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Pacific Time (U.S.) 310-423-6143 Available 24 hours a day 1-800-CEDARS-1 (1-800-233-2771) Share Email Print Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility